Storied motorbike brand Kawasaki has unveiled its first electric motorbikes, with the new range of electric two- wheelers set to rival 125cc equivalent machines and arrive by the end of 2023.
Two machines form the firm’s electric line-up: the naked Z e-1 and faired Ninja e-1. Both use the same brushless electric motor that is rated to 5kW, but has a claimed peak output of up to 9kW.
Built on a trellis type chassis and uses 400cc motorcycle class ABS brakes.
The new electric machines can be charged by removing the two battery packs – which according to Kawasaki are wired in parallel for more efficient charging – or using a socket under the seat.
Kawasaki has not given any details as to the size of the batteries or the official electric range of the Z e-1 and Ninja e-1.
Being electric, the new machines don't feature any gears and use a simple “twist and go” throttle. There are two riding modes, Road and Eco, with an “e-boost” option which increases the power to 9kW and allows for a top speed of up to 61.5mph.
Kawasaki has also fitted its electric two-wheelers with a walk mode that allows riders to manoeuvre the machines at walking pace in both forward and reverse.
Both machines get the same silver and green colour scheme, which will be the signature livery for future Kawasaki EV models.
In the dashboard there is a TFT meter digital display which relays information on the range, riding status, riding modes and the availability of the boost function. It also features smartphone connectivity.
The new Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 are set to arrive before the end of 2023, but the Japanese brand is yet to confirm how much each model will cost.
Click through to see some more images of the new Ninja e-1 and Z e-1.
